Pope's Visit to France: Macron's Absence from Masses Linked to Vatican's Refusals?

Emmanuel Macron will not attend any masses celebrated by Pope Leon XIV during his visit to France from September 25 to 28, 2026, due to several decisions made by the Vatican. Julien Odoul, a deputy from the National Rally, criticized this decision, stating it tarnishes France's image. Unlike his attendance in 2023 in Marseille, Macron will only participate in diplomatic events, meeting the pope at the Élysée and in Metz. The Vatican did not accept several French proposals regarding the visit's program.